Method and apparatus for facilitating monetary and reward transactions and accounting in a gaming environment

ABSTRACT

One or more methods and apparatus for facilitating financial and player tracking/reward transactions. In one embodiment, a system includes at least one server and a plurality of gaming machines and/or a game generator for transmitting game information to a remote game play location. The server has a memory containing data files corresponding to players. The data files contain information such as credits or monies in an account which belong to the player or which may be used by the player to play games. The data files also contain player tracking information, such as points awarded to a player based upon their game play. In one embodiment, players are issued media in the form of player cards having identification information thereon. The identification information is used to access the player&#39;s account or files, such as at a gaming machine. A player and a casino may manage the player&#39;s accounts, such as by placing criteria upon the account, including the use of associated credits. A player may play a game using credits associated with their account. A player may also manage their accounts, including viewing financial and game play or reward information and transfer funds into and out of an account.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.10/652,155, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING MONETARY ANDREWARD TRANSACTIONS AND ACCOUNTING IN A GAMING ENVIRONMENT” and filed onAug. 28, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,526,447, which is a continuation ofU.S. application Ser. No. 09/921,716 filed Aug. 3, 2001 now abandoned,which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/497,788filed Feb. 3, 2000 now abandoned, all of which are hereby incorporatedby reference and for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods and devices for permittingmonetary and reward transactions, and especially those associated withgame play.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditionally, the play of casino games and other games of chance wasbased on the wagering of actual money, such as coins and currency. Coinsand currency have traditionally been used directly as bets in tablegames such as poker and blackjack. Alternatively, the coins and currencyare exchanged for chips which have a representative monetary value.

As mechanical games of chance were developed, such as the well-knownslot machine, coins were used to activate the machines. Later, billvalidators were provided which allowed players to avoid the need toconvert their currency to coins before playing a gaming machine.

Outside of the gaming industry, the consumers were provided with a largevariety of options to effectuate their banking and other monetarytransaction needs. For example, the credit card was developed and hasbecome widespread in use.

In some instances, the gaming industry has come to embrace some of thistechnology and provide greater flexibility to consumers. In general,however, the development of this technology has focused upon interfacingexisting external systems, such as banking systems, with internal casinoaccounting. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,457,306 discloses the use ofcredit cards in association with gaming machines.

The prior art has not addressed, at least from the consumer or player'spoint of view, providing convenient means for effecting financialtransactions in the gaming environment. In addition, players are notprovided with a convenient mechanism for tracking their play, includingexpenditures and winnings. Player tracking or reward systems and thefinancial aspects of playing games also remain independent.

It is desirable to provide one or more methods and devices which serveto facilitate monetary and commercial transaction in a manner overcomingthe above-stated limitations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises methods and apparatus for effectuatingfinancial and reward transactions in a casino or gaming environment.

One or more embodiments of the invention comprises a system. In oneembodiment, the system includes a network linking a plurality of gamingmachines and at least one transaction host or server.

The gaming machines are arranged to accept input of playeridentification information. In one embodiment, the gaming machineincludes a card reader for reading identification information from amagnetic stripe.

The transaction host includes a memory. At least one data file is storedat the memory in association with each player. The at least one datafile is accessible with the identification information. The data fileincludes financial information. Preferably, the financial informationcomprises credit information. The credit information represents creditsor monies which belong to the player and/or may be used to play a gamingmachine. In one or more embodiments, the player's file or filesrepresent one or more financial or award accounts.

In one or more embodiments, the data file includes player play or rewardinformation. The reward information may include points which have beenawarded to the player.

The system is configured to update credit information corresponding to aplayer in the player's file based on amounts bet and amounts won. Thesystem is also configured to record or track game play information as aplayer plays a game.

In one embodiment, the system includes a gateway via which a player mayaccess the transaction host and obtain financial and reward information,and engage in financial and reward transactions. A player may alsoengage in these activities through a kiosk, customer service station orthe like associated directly with the network.

In one embodiment, the system includes a financial host and a rewardhost, each containing one or more files regarding a player. Thefinancial and reward hosts are linked. Use by a player of their playercard permits the player to access both their financial account (such asby betting credits associated with the account) and their reward account(such as by accumulating credits based upon the player's game play).

In accordance with a method, one or more accounts or files areassociated with a player. One or more of the files or accounts arefinancial accounts having associated credit information.

A player may deposit funds which are credited to their file or account.The funds may be deposited electrically, such as by a wire transfer. Thefunds may also be deposited to a cashier and then credited by thecasino. A player may engage in the play of a gaming machine and placebets using credits associated with their file or account. Winnings maybecredited to the player's account.

In one or more embodiments of the invention, a player and/or the casinooperator may place criteria or restrictions upon the account. Forexample, only a certain amount of money or credits may be deducted fromthe player's account over a predetermined period of time. In oneembodiment, a player may have a main account comprising a debit accountfrom which bets are deducted. The player may have a secondary account towhich all winnings are credited.

A player may divert all or a portion of their winnings. For example, aportion of each win may be deposited in the player's account and aportion may be diverted to a charity account. The casino may also diverta portion of the player's winnings representing a tax withholding.

A player may access and manipulate their one or more accounts via anon-line communications link. The player may combine, close and openaccounts. The player may deposit and deduct funds. The player maypurchase reward points and redeem points for prizes or credits which aredeposited in the player's funds account.

In accordance with the invention, a player establishes a financialaccount directly with a casino. The player and casino are permitted tomanage the account. The player is also provided with a separate orintegrated reward account.

In one embodiment, a system of the invention includes a game server. Thegame server is adapted to generate game information for transmission toa remote location where a game is presented using the generatedinformation. The game transaction server is also adapted to receiveinput, such as a player's input regarding the play of a game.

In this embodiment, a player is permitted to play a game from a remotelocation, such as a remote station, home or office computer. A player'sidentification information is provided to the system, such as via thegaming gateway. A communication link is provided between the player'sremote location and the gateway. This link may comprise the Internet ora dedicated line.

The player's identification information is utilized to verify fundsavailable to the player for establishing entitlement to a play a game,i.e. the placing of a wager or bet. The player's play may be tracked andthe player may manipulate their account(s) and having winnings from theplay of the remote game credited to their accounts(s).

Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention overthe prior art will become apparent from the detailed description of thedrawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating a method in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 1( a) is a flow diagram illustrating in detail a method comprisinga step of establishing an account in accordance with the methodillustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1( b) is a flow diagram illustrating in detail a method comprisinga step of activating an account in accordance with the methodillustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1( c) is a flow diagram illustrating in detail a method comprisinga step of determining if access to an account is permitted in accordancewith the method illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1( d) illustrates various flow diagrams of methods comprising avariety of methods of utilizing an accordance in accordance with themethod illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 illustrates a gaming casino player financial and awardtransaction system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;and

FIG. 3 illustrates a gaming machine which may be utilized in the systemillustrated in FIG. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises one or more methods and apparatus forfacilitating monetary and commercial transactions. In the followingdescription, numerous specific details are set forth in order to providea more thorough description of the present invention. It will beapparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present inventionmay be practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known features have not been described in detail so as not toobscure the invention

In general, the invention comprises one or more methods and apparatusfor facilitating transactions, such as monetary finds transfers andpurchases, and especially those occurring at least partiallyelectronically. In one embodiment, the invention comprises methods andapparatus for facilitating commercial transactions, such as the purchaseof goods and services. In other embodiments, the invention comprisesmethods and apparatus for facilitating monetary and reward transactionsin a gaming environment.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is a flowchart illustrating generally amethod of creating an account and utilizing an account in accordancewith the invention. In a first step S1, an account is established. Theaccount is established by an account provider. The account provider maybe a retailer, bank or other entity, such as described in more detailbelow, a casino. As provided below, regardless of whether the account isreferred to as a financial, bank, debit, monetary or other namedaccount, the account has certain characteristics that define it. Theaccount may be established at the request of a party for use bythemselves or for use by another or others.

Referring to FIG. 1( a) there will be described one or more methods forestablishing an account. In a first step S1 a, a customer interfaceswith an account provider. This step may comprise the customer accessinga website belonging to the account provider, calling an account providercustomer representative, or accessing one or more other means now knownor later developed by which the customer may provide information to theaccount provider. Also, the customer may travel to the location of theaccount provider or to a designated location provided by the accountprovider (such as a kiosk).

In a step S1 b, the customer provides data to the account provider. Thisdata is used to set up the account. The particular data which isrequired may vary by provider. In one or more embodiments, the data mayinclude the customer's name and/or the name(s) of the parties which areto be permitted to access the account, address, telephone number, socialsecurity number, birth date, mother's maiden name and/or otherinformation. In the event the customer is a business, the informationmay comprise the business name, address, telephone number, taxpayeridentification number and/or similar information.

The particular manner by which this information is transmitted to theaccount provider may depend upon the interface the customer is using.For example, the data may be input into a graphical user interfaceassociated with the account provider's website and then sent to theaccount provider's computer, such as over the Internet. The data may beprovided orally over the phone by the customer to the account provider.The customer may also fill out a printed form and transmit the form,such as by mail or facsimile.

In a step S1 c, an account type is established. In one or moreembodiments, the account type may comprise one or more of the following:general customer, charity debit, promotional, or allowance account. Theaccount may be utilized for a wide variety of purposes and need not belimited to those described below.

A general customer account is preferably of the type where fundsbelonging to the customer are assigned or credited to the account, andpayments, outgoing transfers and the like are associated with directdebits of these funds from the customer's account. As described below,the customer account preferably permits deposits thereto as well. In oneembodiment, the nature of the account as a debit account differs from acredit type account where those funds which are debited belong to theaccount provider or other creditor with the requirement that thecustomer repay the account provider with their funds at a date after aparticular transaction. In general, the general customer account permitsa customer to make and pay for purchases, obtain funds (such ascurrency), and transfer funds into and out of the account. As describedin more detail below, in one embodiment, such transactions may comprisethe debiting of funds from the account as payment for a wager or betwhen playing a game, and may include the deposit of winnings.

A charity debit account is preferably of the type where the customer mayonly transfer funds from the account to an authorized charity or similarentity, with no other debits permitted (except return of the funds tothe customer or transfer of funds to another account belonging toanother account at the specific instruction of the customer). Generally,the customer will provide the account provider specific informationabout the charity to which funds are to be transferred. The customer mayarrange the account such that funds are debited and transferred to thecharity at one or more predetermined times and for one or morepredetermined amounts.

A promotional account is preferably of the type where the customer is apromoter arranging an account for use by one or more other parties. Forexample, the promoter may be a store owner and the parties who may usethe account may comprise customers or potential customers of the store.The promotional account is arranged so that the parties or users mayaccess the account in accordance with the terms of a promotion offeredby the promoter. A promoter may establish an account having fundspermitting a number of parties to pay for a certain dollar amount ofgoods purchased at their store via the promotional account. For example,a promoter may establish a promotion for a number of parties, such as1000 existing customers, whereby $10 of each purchase from the promoterover $20 is payed for by the promoter. The $10 payment may be debitedfrom the promotional account at the time each party makes a qualifyingpurchase to credit the parties' payment of the goods or services. In oneembodiment, the promotional account may comprise an account entitling aparty to play a predetermined amount of money at games at a casino, orto obtain other goods or services from the casino operator.

An allowance account is preferably of the type where funds are arrangedto be periodically transferred into the account. Such an account may beextremely useful to parents having children. In accordance with thisaccount arrangement, funds are periodically transferred into the accountfor subsequent use. The funds may be transferred from anotherestablished account, or an account or other source not associated withthe account provider. For example, parents may establish a customeraccount from which funds are periodically transferred, such as every twoweeks, into an allowance account which is accessible by one or more oftheir children. These children may access the allowance account to payfor books and the like. In this manner, the parents may control (and asdescribed below, track) the spending, of their children or other partieswhich have access to the account.

An allowance account may also be used to pay bills and pay forentertainment or be for other purposes. Monies maybe deposited in theaccount periodically for paying particular bills, especially those whichare payable on a predetermined regular basis. The allowance account maybe used to define an amount of money for a particular discretionarypurpose. For example, a family may deposit monies into an allowanceaccount which may be used in that or successive months for entertainmentpurposes, such as gaming, travel, movies, or the like.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the particular type(s) ofaccounts and their various features or characteristics may be differentthan those provided above. For example, an account may have one or morefeatures associated with more than one of the account types providedabove.

In a step S1 d, the account provider generates an account number andassociates the account number with the account. The account number maybe used by the account provider and customer to identify the account.

In a step S1 e, in one embodiment of the invention, the account providerassigns the account with a maximum funds value or value limit. Ingeneral, this value may be selected by the customer. Most often, themaximum value will comprise the amount of an initial deposit into theaccount by the customer. In one or more embodiments, the accountprovider may only offer accounts having pre-set limits, such as $50,$100, $250 or $500. In another embodiment of invention, the account hasno limit.

In a step S1 f funds are deposited into the account. In an embodimentwhere the account has a minimum limit, the maximum amount of funds whichmay be deposited into the account does not exceed the funds maximumvalue associated with the account.

In one or more embodiments, the customer may provide data which permitsthe account provider to obtain funds electronically. In one or moreembodiments, this comprises providing the account provider with arouting number for a checking or savings account at a bank, account andaccess information for an ATM card linked to an account, or a creditcard. In one or more embodiments, a customer may be permitted to depositfunds by mail or similar non or partially non-electronic manner. Acustomer may also be permitted to deposit monies in person, such as at acashier cage at a casino or a bank teller.

In a step S1 g, the established account may be assigned an expirationdate. In one or more embodiments of the invention, this step comprisesassociating date data with the account. The expiration date may begenerated in a wide variety of manners. The expiration date may comprisea date which is determined by adding a fixed period of time to the dateon which the account is established or, as described below, the date onwhich the account is activated. As described below, the account isarranged such that when the actual date reaches the expiration date, theaccount can not be accessed except by the account provider.

In a step S1 h, an account signature is generated and associated withthe account. The signature comprises a unique code or other element foridentifying the account and/or establishing entitlement to access theaccount. In one or more embodiments, the account provider generates thecode based on one or more elements of data associated with the account,such as customer provided data, the initial funds deposit amount, theaccount number, the account expiration date and/or one or more otherelements. In one or more embodiments, the account signature is generatedfrom, or includes, an access code or personal identification number(PIN) data assigned to or selected by the customer as described below.In one or more embodiments, the data used to generate the signature maybe input into an encryptor to generate an output which comprises theaccount signature. The account signature may be generated randomly aswell. Preferably, whatever means is used to generate the signature, eachsignature is unique for a particular account.

In a step S1 i, the account signature or identification information isprovided to the customer. In one or more embodiments, the accountsignature is mailed to the customer, told over the phone by a customerrepresentative of the account provider to the customer, or istransmitted electronically to the customer. As described below, in theevent the customer is provided with an account access media, then theaccount signature may be provided on the account media. The accountsignature may be printed on, embossed in, or encoded on the accountmedia or an element associated therewith.

In a step S1 j, an account access code is generated and associated withthe account. In one or more embodiments, the account provider generatesthe access code. In other embodiments, the customer generates the codeand provides it to the account provider. The access code may comprise apersonal identification number or “PIN” comprising one or more lettersand/or numbers.

In a step S1 k, the access code is provided to the customer. In the casewhere the customer selects the access code, this step is completed atthe same time as step S1 h. When the account provider generates thecode, the code may be mailed, electronically transmitted or spoken tothe customer.

In a step S1 l, in one or more embodiments, the customer is providedwith an account access media. The access media may comprise a card,check, ticket, chip or a wide variety of other items. In one or moreembodiments, the account signature is associated with the access media.When the access media comprises a card, check or the like, the accountsignature and/or account may be printed or encoded thereon. The accountsignature may be provided in one or two-dimensional bar code form or beencoded in a magnetic stripe or a chip or other data storage elementassociated with the media.

The account signature and/or access code may comprise a physicalcharacteristic of the customer. For example, the access code maycomprise a fingerprint or the customer's retinal features. In general,the account number, signature and access code are for use in identifyingthe particular account and ensuring that only those parties withauthority to access an account can do so. A variety of other methods anddevices may be used for these purposes.

In one or more embodiments, the method need not include all of theabove-referenced steps. A variety of other steps and may be associatedwith the establishment of an account for the customer, and the stepsdescribed above need not be completed in the order in which they weredescribed.

In the above-described embodiment, an account number, account signatureand access code (i.e. PIN) are used to identify and gain access. Forexample, in one arrangement, only an account identifier, such as anaccount number, is assigned and used to gain access to an account. Inanother embodiment, a PIN is also utilized. In one embodiment, anaccount number may be used to gain access to an account via a customerservice representative. A more complex account signature may beassociated with an access media for gaining access to the account, asthe user need not remember the complex account signature if it is storedand readable.

Referring again to FIG. 1, in a step S2, an account which the customerwishes to access is activated. Normally, this step will be in responseto a customer wishing to access a newly established account.

Referring to FIG. 1( a), there is illustrated one embodiment of a methodof activating an account in the event the account has not beenactivated. In a first step S2 a, the customer accesses the account. Inone or more embodiments, this step comprises a customer contacting theaccount provider, such as via a website of the account provider or bytelephone with a customer service representative.

In a second step S2 b, the customer provides their account number,signature and, in one or more embodiments, the access code. This accountidentification and access data may be provided by a customer telling anaccount representative the information, typing the information into adata input accepting element of a graphical user interface of a website,or otherwise transmitting such to the account provider. In oneembodiment, the account number and signature may be scanned off of anaccount media provided the customer, such as with a magnetic stripe orbar code reader.

In a step S2 c, the account provider activates the account. In one ormore embodiments, this step comprises associating data with the accountwhich indicates that the customer and/or other designated and/orappropriate parties may utilize and access the account.

The account activation may be accomplished in a wide variety of othermanners. For example, in one embodiment, a customer may activate anaccount by simply calling a phone number of the account provider orentering the appropriate data into the account provider's website. Inthis arrangement, it is not necessary for the customer to access theaccount or provide all of the account information which may be necessaryfor the customer to use the account.

In one embodiment, an account may be activated for use by a customer atthe time it is established. When the account is created, it mayautomatically be activated by the account provider.

In such an arrangement, any access media associated therewith maybeseparately activated. For example, the account may be activated whenestablished, allowing a customer to make deposits, funds transfers orthe like through an account provider representative or website. However,the customer may not be permitted to utilize an account media (such asfor purchases or cash withdraws) until the customer activates theaccount as to the media. The customer may activate an access card bycalling a representative of the account provider after the card isreceived or other means.

Referring again to FIG. 1, in a step S3 it is determined if a customerwishes to access an account, as by a customer's attempted use of theaccount. This step may be remote in time from step S2, or at the sametime. For example, a customer may activate an account shortly afterestablishing it, but not access the account for several days or weeksthereafter. A customer may also wish to activate an account and utilizeit at the same time, such as when the customer wishes to pay for apurchase at a store.

In one or more embodiments, this step comprises determining if acustomer is accessing a bank, automated teller, customer servicerepresentative, account provider website, remote payment station, gamingmachine or the like. In order to determine if the customer is attemptingto access an account, particular account information and associatedaccess data is required. This data may be provided to the accountprovider or other account access controlling entity in a number ofmanners. In one or more embodiments, the account information may bedirectly provided by the customer, as through data input into a websiteor spoken to an account representative, or by reading the informationfrom the access media.

The customer may wish to access the account for a number of reasons. Forexample, in the event a customer wishes to complete a purchase from avendor, such as on-line or at a store, the customer may seek to accessthe account to pay for the purchase. The customer may seek access to theaccount to obtain funds from an automated teller machine.

In one or more embodiments, data must be provided to the accountprovider to establish the entitlement of the customer to access thedesignated account. This information may comprise the account signatureand/or access code. Again, the particular means and/or method by whichthis information is provided may vary. In an embodiment where a customeris seeking to access an account using an access media, the accountsignature may be read or scanned from the card, and the access code maybe provided by the customer, such as through a keypad. The customer mayalso provide such information through a variety of data input devices,such as a computer or customer station at a store, or provide theinformation directly to an account representative.

When a customer wishes to access an account, in a step S4 it isdetermined if the access to the account is permitted. In one or moreembodiments, and referring to FIG. 1( c), this step includes a step S4 aof determining if the provided account access information is correct andcomplete. In one or more embodiments, this step comprises comparing theprovided account identification and/or access information to thatassociated with the account which the customer is seeking to access. Ifthe required information has not been provided or is not correct, accessto the account is denied. The customer may then be directed to contactthe account provider and/or attempt to re-enter the required data incase there was an error in providing or transmitting it to the provider.

If the requisite access information is provided, then in a step S4 b, itis determined if the account is closed. If the account has been closed,then access to the account is denied. The account may be closed at therequest of the customer, upon violation of account terms and conditionsor for a wide variety of other criteria or reasons.

If the account is not closed, then in a step S4 c, it is determined ifthe account is expired. The account may be determined to be expired if acurrent date is the same as or time-wise later than the expiration dateassigned to the account. If the account is expired, the customer is notpermitted to access the account directly. Preferably, in that situation,the customer may access the account only through the account provider.The customer may contact the account provider and arrange for theremoval of any funds remaining in the account. Alternatively, thecustomer may be permitted to re-activate the account with a newexpiration date.

If in step S4 it is determined that access is permitted to the account,then in step S5, the customer is permitted to utilize the account. Asdescribed below, a variety of transactions, interactions with andmanipulations to the account are permitted.

Referring to FIG. 1( d), in one or more embodiments, in a step S6, acustomer is permitted to utilize the account to make a payment to athird party. A variety of methods may be implemented to effectuate thisstep. In one or more embodiments, in a step S6 a, it is determined ifthe account is a charity account. If so, in a step S6 b, funds aretransferred from the charity account to a selected charity.

In one or more embodiments, when a charity account is established, theaccount provider designates the account a charity account. At that time,a customer may designate one or more charities to which funds placed inthe account are to be distributed to. These funds may be distributed inaccordance with the specific instruction of the customer at a laterdate, or at a predetermined time or in accordance with a predetermineschedule. The amount of the finds to be distributed may be designated bythe customer as well. In one or more other embodiments, the customer maydesignate the charity(ies) to which funds are to be distributed afterthe account has been established.

In one or more embodiments, the funds which are distributed to thecharity are transferred electronically from the account by the accountprovider to an account belonging to the charity or an intermediateescrow account or the like from which the charity may obtain payment. Inother embodiments, the finds may be mailed or transmitted in othermanners.

If the account is not a charity account, then it is determined in a stepS6 c if the account is a promotional account. If the account is apromotional account, then in a step S6 c, the account may be used topurchase or pay for goods from specific parties. Preferably, the accountprovider must verify that the purchase is being made from one of theauthorized parties. Normally, when the purchase is being made, thevendor will transmit vendor identification information along with thecustomer's account information. The account provider can verify thevendor from the provided vendor information.

If in step S6 c it is determined that the account is not a promotionalaccount, then it is determined that the account is a customer orallowance account which may be used as the source of payment for atransaction with, in general, any party. In step S6 e, the purchase orother transaction is then facilitated by debiting the account.

It will be appreciated that a variety of steps other than thosedescribed may be associated with the payment of a purchase from theaccount. For example, in one step, the account provider must generallyverify that sufficient funds exist in the account to permit thetransaction. If sufficient funds do not exist, then the transaction maynot be permitted. Alternatively, as described below, the account may beprovided with a “credit” or “overdraft” feature which would still permitthe customer to access the account.

As part of the transaction, the particular vendor may send informationwhich facilitates the transfer of funds from the customer's account tothe vendor's account by the account provider. For example, thisinformation may comprise a vendor identification or account number.

As provided above, the method and apparatus by which the customeraccesses the account to facilitate a purchase may vary. For example, ifthe customer is purchasing goods at a store, the customer may swipetheir access media through a card reader and enter their access code. Ifthe purchase is through a web-site or similar on-line access, the datamay be input into a graphical user interface of the site. In oneembodiment described in greater detail below, the apparatus may includea system for use in a casino or other gaming environment.

In accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention, the paymentfor purchase may be arranged as an automated debit from the account. Forexample, a customer may arrange for payments to be made from the accounton a periodic basis, such as in response to monthly amounts due a party(such as for a car payment or the like). In such event, the customer mayprovide the necessary debit information to the account provider.

In one or more embodiments, a purchase may be made in the form of anautomatic funds transfer. For example, a customer may arrange with aparticular vendor an arrangement where payment for the goods or servicesis made automatically. The customer provides the vendor with the accountdata which is then used by the vendor at one or more times subsequentthereto to affect payment. As an example, a customer may provide accountdata to their electric company. The electric company may then receivepayment for the electricity supplied to the customer each month directlyfrom the account through the account provider without intervention by oracts required by the customer. In this embodiment, the step of thecustomer accessing the account, step S3, generally comprises thecustomer providing the account data to the vendor or other party andthen the vendor accessing the account as agent of the customer.

As one aspect of utilizing the account, as illustrated in FIG. 1( d), ina step S7, in one or more embodiments a customer may deposit funds intothe account. A variety of methods may be implemented to effectuate thisstep. In one or more embodiments, this step includes a step S7 a ofdetermining if the account is an allowance type account. If so, then ina step S7 b, funds are periodically transferred into the account. If theaccount is an allowance account, a customer will have provided theaccount provider with a source of funds from which a transfer into theaccount is to be made. The source of funds may be a customer's creditcard, a bank account, or another account in accordance with the presentinvention. The customer will also have provided the account providerwith specific instructions as to when funds are to be deposited, in whatamount and the like.

If the account is not an allowance type account, then in a step S7 c,the customer must specifically arrange for the particular transfer offunds with the account provider. For example, the customer may access aweb-site or customer representative and provide source funds data. Thisdata may comprise credit card information, bank account and routinginformation or the like. The customer may also arrange for fundstransfer between accounts at a bank or similar provided customerstation, phone controlled system or the like.

As one aspect of utilizing the account, as illustrated in FIG. 1( d), ina step S8, in one or more embodiments a customer may withdraw funds fromthe account. A variety of methods may be implemented to effectuate thisstep. In one or more embodiments, the funds withdrawal may comprise theissuance of currency such as U.S. or other dollars, or other media. Inone or more other embodiments, the withdrawal may comprise the transferof funds to another entity or account.

In general, when the customer desires to obtain currency, the customertravels to an automated teller machine (ATM), bank or similar currencydispensing location. In such event, the step of providing the requisiteaccount data (see step S3) may comprise swiping an account media andinputting an access code. In the event the customer does not have anaccess media, the customer may provide the requisite data directly to ateller or other bank personnel for input into a system.

If the customer desires to withdraw funds and have the funds transferredinto another account, the customer may be permitted to do such over thephone, via the account provider's web site, or at a bank or otherlocation. In this regard, the number of locations at which a customermay effectuate the transfer is not constrained to locations wherecurrency can be dispensed.

If the customer requests funds, and if such funds exist in the account,the customer is provided with funds. This step may include the step oftransmitting the funds request to the account provider and the accountprovider comparing the amount of funds requested versus the total amountof funds in the account. If the funds exist, then the account providermay send a signal or other indication that it is permissible to dispensethe funds.

In one or more embodiments, the customer is permitted to requestcurrency or a transfer. If currency is requested, then currency isdispensed. If a transfer is requested, then the funds may be transmittedelectronically to a new account. In the event the funds are to betransferred to another account, the customer provides the necessaryinformation, such as the receiving account number and/or routing numberand/or receiving party information.

As one aspect of utilizing the account, as illustrated in FIG. 1( d), ina step S9, in one or more embodiments a customer may obtain accountinformation and manage their account. A variety of methods and devicesmay be utilized to effectuate this step. For example, a customer maycall an automated telephonic information system, call a customer servicerepresentative or access a web site belonging to the account provider.In one or more embodiments, certain information and transactions may bepermitted through an automated teller machine or similar remote accesssite.

In one embodiment, this step may include one or more of the followingsteps. In a step S9 a, a customer may be permitted to obtain theiraccount balance. The account balance may be provided on a viewing screenor printed on paper.

In one or more embodiments, in a step S9 b, a customer may obtain theaccount limit for their account. The limit value may be displayed to thecustomer if the customer is located at a display, or may be printed ontoa media, such as paper, and dispensed or mailed to the customer. If thecustomer is utilizing a phone system, the information may be transmittedover the phone.

In one or more embodiments, in a step S9 c, a customer may changeinformation associated with their account. This information may comprisetheir name, address, telephone number, the name(s) of parties permittedto access the account and the like.

In a step S9 d, a customer may change their access code or similaraccess information. For example, in one embodiment, the account providermay assign the customer the access code when the account is established.In accordance with this step, the customer may change this access codeto a code of their selection.

In a step S9 e, a customer may obtain information regarding transactionsassociated with the account. This information may include informationregarding fund deposits, withdraws and other transactions. In one ormore embodiments, the customer may obtain information regarding anamount paid or transferred out of the account, the date of the transferand the party to whom the amount was paid or transferred. The customermay obtain information regarding an amount deposited or transferred intothe account, the date of the transfer and the origin of the funds.

In a step S9 f, a customer may close the account. When closing theaccount, the customer may indicate to the account provider the locationto which any funds remaining in the account are to be transferred.

In a step S9 g, a customer may re-activate an account in order to changeits expiration date. For example, before an account expires, a customerwishing to utilize the account for a longer period of time may elect tore-set the expiration date for the account. In one or more embodiments,the date is automatically set by the account provider, such as by addinga period of time to the current expiration date or the current date. Inone or more other embodiments, the customer may select a new expirationdate in the future.

As one aspect of utilizing the account, as illustrated in FIG. 1( c), ina step S10, in one or more embodiments a customer may change the statusof the account. A variety of methods may be implemented to effectuatethis step. In a step S10 a, a customer may change the account type, suchas from a customer account to a charity or other account, or vice versa.In a step S10 b, a customer may merge one account with another account.For example, a customer having two accounts may wish to merge theaccounts into a single account. A customer having one account mayestablish another and then merge or eliminate the first account in favorof the second.

Several examples of account merging are provided below:

1 John Doe's Debit Accounts Account Type Balance Status $250 DebitAccount $100 Remaining Active until Jan. 1, 2001 $150 Debit Account $50Remaining Active until Apr. 1, 2001

After merging accounts into a new account:

2 John Doe's Debit Accounts Account Type Balance Status $250 DebitAccount $0 Remaining Closed $150 Debit Account $0 Remaining Closed $150Debit Account $150 Remaining Active until Jun. 1, 2001

Alternatively, the owner of the accounts may wish to transfer the$100.00 remaining from the $250 account into the $150 account with$50.00 remaining. This would close the $250 debit account and establisha new balance of $150 in the $150 debit account. An example of thistransaction is as follows:

3 John Doe's Debit Accounts Account Type Balance Status $250 DebitAccount $100 Remaining Active until Jan. 1, 2001 $150 Debit Account $50Remaining Active until Apr. 1, 2001

After transferring the remaining amount into the $150 account:

4 John Doe's Debit Accounts Account Type Balance Status $250 DebitAccount $0 Remaining Closed $150 Debit Account $150 Remaining Activeuntil Apr. 1, 2001

A customer may also be permitted to close the account. If the account isempty, the account is simply closed by the account provider so thatfurther access to the account by the customer is prevented. In the eventfunds exist in the account, the customer may be provided with the optionof transferring the funds to another location or account, or obtain thefunds from the account provider by mail.

In accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention, the accountprovider may provide a credit line or “overdraft” protection for theaccount. This option may be provided to the customer for free or uponpayment of specific service charges. In accordance with this embodiment,in the event a customer wishes to withdraw funds from the account(whether to obtain currency, transfer to another account or payment forgoods/services) in an amount greater than that which exists in theaccount, the account provider may supply the funds to the customer.

In one or more embodiments, the account provider may charge the customera specific fee for utilizing the credit line, such as a per usage fee,interest or the like. In one or more embodiments, after a particulartransaction which exceeds the amount of funds in the account, theaccount is frozen until sufficient funds are placed in the account orprovided to the account provider to cover the funds deficiency.

One or more embodiments of the invention comprise apparatus for use inperforming the above-described methods. As stated above, this apparatusmay include an access media, such as a card, check, chip or the like.The apparatus may also include a wide variety of devices for interactingwith the account provider and/or account. These devices may include someexisting devices, such as existing bank teller machines, card readingdevices, and data receiving and transmitting devices.

In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a computing device. Thecomputing device includes a memory for storing data. Preferably, thedata comprises files of information representing accounts and accountinformation. Means are provided for effectuating the methods ofdebiting, crediting and manipulating/managing the accounts. In oneembodiment this means comprises software, such as machine-readableprogram code, for effectuating these tasks.

In one embodiment, the computing device may be associated with a networkor system. The network may include the Internet, a LAN, WAN, or devicesconnected by dedicated line or other means of communication.

In one or more embodiments, a customer is permitted to establish andinteract with their account via a website or similar on-line access. Thewebsite may include a graphical user interface designed to provideinformation to the customer and prompt and accept that information. Thewebsite may have multiple levels or pages. For example, the website mayhave a home page or “log-in” page which prompts a customer to eitheridentify that they are a new customer and wish to establish or activatean account or identify themselves as an existing customer and have themprovide the requisite account information.

If the customer is a new customer, the customer may be sent to a webpageat which information is provided to the customer about the variousaccounts which may be established. This or other pages may includeprompts for providing the data necessary to establish an account.

If the customer is an existing customer and provides the necessaryinformation to access the account (as in Step S3-S5 set forth above),then the customer may be presented with a menu page. At this page thecustomer may be selected with a menu of items from which to select.These items may be similar to those of steps S7-10. For example, acustomer may be provided with a “manage account” item. Upon selectingthis item, the customer may be presented with a number of sub-menuitems. These items may comprise those items identified in steps S9 a-f.

In one or more embodiments, a webpage may display account informationfor more than one account belonging to a customer. A variety of meansmay then be presented to the customer for use in manipulating theseaccounts. For example, a customer may then be permitted to “drop anddrag” funds or the like from one account to another.

As indicated, the account provider may have one or more devices adaptedto store account information and receive and transmit account data, datarepresenting funds transfers and the like. The data storage device maycomprise one or more hard drives or similar elements used to storeaccount data. Modems, servers or similar devices may be used to transmitand receive data.

The devices used to implement the present invention may be incorporatedinto existing systems facilitating monetary and commercial transactions.For example, the access media associated with an account in accordancewith the present invention may be utilized with current card-readingdevices.

In accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention, an accountprovider may issue accounts associated with access media which areavailable for purchase by customers. For example, an account providermay associate an account with an access media. The access media may haveassociated therewith an expiration date, account data and a maximumvalue. A customer may “purchase” the account and associated access mediaat a retail location. When the account provider is a bank, the bank mayplace access media on sale at retail locations such as grocery andretail stores.

A customer purchases the account and card by paying the retailer (who inturn pays the account provider). In one or more embodiments, thecustomer may thereafter access the account by activating the account.This may comprise calling the account provider after purchase. At thattime, the account provider may provide the customer with an access codefor use in using the access card. The access code could be provided onthe card, but this arrangement has added security in that the accountprovider can ensure that the account is only accessed once it has beenpaid for.

In this embodiment, a customer may conveniently obtain a “pre-paid”account for themselves or for another party. The account may be used insimilar fashion to a credit or ATM card, permitting purchases from anyvendor and permitting access to cash from any of a variety ofcash-dispensing locations.

It will be noted that in this embodiment, the step of establishing theaccount is generally accomplished by the account provider without inputfrom the customer. In one or more embodiments, after purchasing orobtaining the access card, a customer may be required or permitted toprovide additional information in order to access the account.

As indicated, in one embodiment of the invention, the access card ormedia may indicate an expiration date thereof and/or the associatedaccount. If the access media and/or associated account is expired, thepurchase is not permitted. If the access media is about to expire, thecustomer may purchase it and, if the customer wishes to extend theexpiration date, contact the account provider after purchase to do so.In one or more embodiments, the expiration data may not be printed onthe access media, but when it is purchased scanned, read or the like bythe vendor to ensure that it is still valid. When a purchase of anaccess media is made, the expiration data may then be reset apredetermine time from the purchase, with this information scanned ontothe card or otherwise associated with the account.

In the above-described arrangement, each access media, once paid for,generally has the same characteristics as cash. A customer may pay forgoods using the purchased access media. A customer may deposit the fundsassociated with the access media into another account, or transfer it toanother party.

One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method and apparatusfor permitting financial, reward and other transactions in casino orgaming environment. One or more embodiments of the invention comprisespecific or related implementations of the methods described above andillustrated in FIGS. 1-1( d).

Applications of these methods and other methods of the invention aredescribed below. In one embodiment, the methods may be implemented via acasino player financial and award transaction system 100 as illustratedin FIG. 2.

Referring to FIG. 2, in a preferred embodiment, the system 100 includesone or more gaming machines 102 or other gaming devices. FIG. 3illustrates in greater detail one embodiment of such a gaming machine ordevice 102. In general, the gaming machine 102 is adapted to present atleast one game for play to a player. As illustrated, the gaming machine102 includes a housing 104 which supports and/or houses the variouscomponents of the gaming machine 102. In the embodiment illustrated, thegaming machine 102 is adapted to present a game of “slots,” and includesthree rotating reels 106 a,b,c. A handle 108 or spin button 110 may beused to effectuate rotation of the reels 106 a,b,c.

In this well known game, a player may be declared a winner of the gameand awarded an award if the result of the rotation of the reels 106a,b,c is a predetermined combination of symbols. It should be understoodthat the gaming machine 102 may be adapted to present one or more of awide variety of games. Depending upon the game presented, theconfiguration of the machine may vary. For example, in the event thegaming machine 102 is adapted to present the game of video poker, thenthe gaming machine 102 may include a video display.

In one or more embodiments of the invention, the gaming machine 102 isadapted to present a wager-type game. In this arrangement, a player isrequired to place a bet or wager in order to participate in the game. Inthe event the outcome of the game is a winning outcome, then the playermay be provided with an award such as coins or currency, or creditswhich may be redeemed for prizes or money. In one arrangement, the awardmay be winnings in proportion to the amount wagered or bet by theplayer.

In order to accept a wager, the gaming machine 20 may include a coinacceptor 112 for accepting coins. The gaming machine 20 may also includea bill acceptor or validator 114 for accepting paper currency. In apreferred embodiment, the gaming machine 102 is also provided with meansfor accepting input regarding an account, such as a card reader 116 forreading an access media in the form of a card including a magneticstripe. If the access media has another form, then the input device maybe suitably arranged, such as a bar code reader for reading a printedbar code.

In one embodiment, the card reader 116 is associated with a playertracking system. In another embodiment, the card reader 116 may beseparate from a card reader or other device associated with the playertracking system.

In a preferred embodiment, the gaming machine 102 is associated with aplayer tracking system. Such a system may also be referred to as aplayer reward or player loyalty system. The details of this system aredescribed in more detail below. In general the player tracking systemincludes a gaming machine player tracking device associated with aplayer tracking host system via a network including a communicationlink.

The player tracking device of the gaming machine 20 also includes a cardreader. As indicated, in one embodiment the card reader of the playertracking device is the same as the access media card reader 116.

In one embodiment, the gaming machine 102 includes one or moreadditional input devices. The gaming machine 102 preferably includes akeyboard or keypad 118 which permits input from a player. The keypad 118permits input of an account access personal identification number (PIN).

The gaming machine player tracking device may have a variety of otherconfigurations and include the other devices.

Referring again to FIG. 2, in one embodiment the system 100 includes aplurality of gaming machines 102. Preferably, each gaming machine 102 isassociated with one or more other devices through a wired or wirelesscommunication network including at least one communication link.

In one embodiment, each gaming machine 102 is in communication at one ormore times with a financial transaction host 120. The financialtransaction host 120 may comprise a single computer or a group ofcomputers associated with one another on the network. Appropriatehardware and/or software is provided for permitting the one or morecomputing devices of the financial transaction host 120 to send andreceive information. For example, in one embodiment, data may be sent toand from the financial transaction host 120 in accordance with anynumber of protocols, such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, IEEE-1394, Bluetooth andothers. Appropriate hardware and software is provided for implementingthese protocols. Of course, the communication protocol and the form ofthe network are chosen in tandem. For example, the Bluetooth protocolmay be implemented with a wireless network including wireless data relaystations. An IEEE-1394 protocol may be implemented over a wired network,such as copper wire or fiber optic lines.

In one embodiment, the financial transaction host 120 includes at leastone data storage element for storing the account information. The datastorage element may comprise a hard drive, RAM, tape drive, CD-ROM,DVD-RAM or other memory or data storage member or element. The financialtransaction host 120 may including a number of other devices, such asone or more displays, keyboards and other devices for displaying data,controlling operation thereof and the like.

In one embodiment, the financial transaction host 120 includes hardwareand/or software for creating financial accounts such as described above,and for implementing account transactions, as also described herein. Inone embodiment, the financial transaction host 120 is associated withone or more additional networks besides that including the gamingmachines 102.

In one embodiment, the financial transaction host 120 is associated withthe Internet and one or more closed or partially closed networks, suchas financial/banking networks. In one embodiment, the financialtransaction host 120 includes a communications gateway 122. The gateway122 is preferably adapted to permit communications between the financialtransaction host 120 and other devices where the communications protocolmay be different. For example, the casino player financial and awardtransaction system 100 may employ a IEEE-1394 communication protocol. Onthe other hand, the host 120 be adapted to receive information from andtransmit information to the Internet, which utilizes a TCP/IP protocol.

In one embodiment, communications pathways may be provided between thefinancial transaction host 120 and a variety of devices in a variety ofmanners. For example, communications may be permitted via phone line ordedicated line. A player or customer may access the financial trackinghost 120 via the Internet 124 from a remote location 126. A player mayalso access the financial transaction host 120 via a direct line, suchas a direct-dial phone line connection. Connections with other financialinstitutions 128 may be by dedicate or secure lines 130.

In one embodiment, the system 100 includes one or more kiosks 132. Sucha kiosk 132 may comprise an apparatus at which a player may gain accessto the financial transaction host 120. The kiosk 132 may have a varietyof forms. In one embodiment, the kiosk 132 may comprise a computingdevice including a processor, display, and at least one communicationinterface with the system 100.

In one embodiment, one or more customer service centers 134, such ascashier booths, mobile stations or the like may be associated with thesystem 100. Preferably, a player may engage in one or more transactionsat such a center 134, such as depositing funds into their account.

In one or more embodiments, the system 100 includes a player tracking orreward system host 136. The player tracking or reward system host 136 isin communication with the player tracking device of each gaming machine102 via the at least one communication link of the system.

In like fashion to the financial transaction host 120, the playertracking host 136 may comprise a single computer or a group of computersassociated with one another. Appropriate hardware and/or software isprovided for permitting the one or more computing devices of the playertracking host 136 to send and receive information. In one embodiment,the player tracking host 136 includes at least one data storage elementfor storing the player information. The data storage element maycomprise a hard drive, RAM, tape drive, CD-ROM, DVD-RAM or other memoryor data storage member or element. The player tracking host 136 mayincluding a number of other devices, such as one or more displays,keyboards and other devices for displaying data, controlling operationthereof and the like.

In one embodiment, the player tracking host 136 and the financialtransaction host 120 may comprise the same apparatus or group ofapparatus. In the embodiment illustrated, the player tracking host 136and financial tracking host 120 are separate, but in communication withone another. In one embodiment, some but not all of the components ofthe hosts may be shared, such as a memory or data storage device ordevices.

In one embodiment, the player tracking host 136 is adapted to implementa player tracking/reward or “comp” function. The player tracking host136 may thus be adapted to aggregate game play data regarding variousplayers playing the gaming machines 102. This data may includeinformation such as the length of time of game play, amounts bet,amounts awarded, and a wide variety of other information. In general,the player tracking device of each gaming machine 102 is adapted totransmit the player tracking data over the communications link(s) to theplayer tracking host 136. Based on player activities, a player may beawarded a “comp”. Comps are generally awards, such as prizes, money,free game play, lodging or the like which are provided to the playerapart from any awards which the player receives from direct game play.Such are referred to as “comps” as they are “complimentary” andgenerally do not require specific obligation, such as an additional bet,in order to be received. The system is often referred to as a reward orloyalty system because a player is generally awarded an award resultingfrom extended or frequent game play. In one arrangement, a player mayacquire points based upon a game criteria, such as amounts bet, won orlost. If a player accrues sufficient credits, the player is awarded areward.

Preferably, one or more data files are stored at the memory (or otherdata storage device/element) which is located at or in association withthe financial transaction host 120. In one embodiment, the data filecorresponds to a player. The data file is accessible or identifiable byidentification information, such as an account number or playeridentifier.

As described herein, this identifier may be stored on a player card. Asdetailed above, in one embodiment a password, player PIN or the like maybe required to access an account or file in addition to the playeridentifier. In one embodiment, the player PIN is stored at the data fileand is used to confirm the PIN entered by the player.

In one embodiment, a player may have more than one account. Each accountmay be represented by one or more different data files. In anotherembodiment, the information regarding all accounts may be stored in asingle data file. Different identifiers or different PINs may be used toidentify and access each account.

Where a single host or server is provided for both financial andreward/tracking functions, the data files or accounts may include bothinformation regarding a player's finances and game play information,such as rewarded points. Where separate servers or hosts are provided,separate or different accounts or files may be provided.

In one embodiment, the system includes data files containing informationregarding credits or monies which the player may use to play a game orobtain other goods or services. In one embodiment, the credits or moniesmay have been deposited by the player. The credits or monies may also beawarded or rewarded, or purchased, as described below.

Means are provided for deducting credits or monies which are used by aplayer. This means may comprise software, such as computer program code.In one embodiment, a signal is transmitted from a gaming machine to thefinancial transaction host 120 in response to input from a player toplace a bet (such as by pressing a bet button at the game). If theplayer has credits associated with their account, a signal istransmitted back to the gaming machine 102 approving the bet, and themonies or credits are deducted from the player's account. The deductedmonies may be tracked for accounting purposes, such as by crediting thedebited amount to a casino account or holding account.

Means are also provided for crediting monies or credits which are won bya player. This means may again comprise software. When a gaming machineindicates a win, the amount won may be credited to a player's account.

In one or more embodiments, means may be provided for assigning accountcriteria and determining if account criteria are met. As noted above,such criteria may comprise a limit on the amount of funds which may bedebited from an account during a period of time, that no winnings are tobe credited to the account, that a portion of funds credited are to bedonated to a charity, that tax withholding is to be removed from allwinnings, or a wide variety of other criteria.

In a preferred configuration of a system of the invention, each playeris provided with a single access media, such as a player card. By usingthis single card at a gaming machine, both financial transaction andplayer tracking/reward functions are enabled. If a player has more thanone account, such as a debit financial account for playing games and acredit account to which winnings are paid, then when playing the gamethe system is adapted to use the player's main or debit account. Aplayer may still access and manage all of their accounts, such asremotely from a computer, at a kiosk or customer service location. Inone embodiment, a player may need to utilize a different identifier toaccess other accounts. For example, such accounts may be provided withother account numbers, or the players PIN number may differ for accountsall having the same main account number.

In one embodiment, the system is arranged to permit a player to accessall of their accounts once their single identifier (such as accountnumber) and PIN (if necessary) are provided. For example, the system maygenerate and send information to the player for display on a displayscreen. This information may include information regarding all of theplayer's accounts. A player may then select a particular account tomanage, such as for causing the system to display detailed informationregarding that account.

It will be appreciated that a system for implementing one or moremethods of the invention, including specifically in a gamingenvironment, may vary from that described and illustrated. In oneembodiment, the system may be adapted to include table and other typesof gaming devices.

One or more methods of the invention specifically relating to the casinoor gaming environment will now be described. Referring to FIG. 1, in oneembodiment, a casino patron or player may establish an account with acasino. As noted above, there are a variety of ways for a player toestablish an account, including registering on-line (such as over theInternet) or at the casino or a kiosk.

With respect to the casino or gaming environment, a wide variety ofaccounts may be established. These accounts may have a wide range ofcriteria associated therewith. For example, a player may set up a playeraccount in similar fashion to a general customer account. This accountmay be arranged to permit both withdrawals and deposits, and may or maynot have a limit associated therewith.

One particular account which may be permitted is a limit account, whichpermits only a predetermined amount of withdrawals over a period oftime. For example, the account may permit a player to withdraw only $500per month. A player may wish to establish such an account to limit theirtotal expenditures over time.

Another account may have a deposit limit. The deposit limit works in asimilar fashion to a limit account, except that the maximum amount whichmay be withdrawn is limited by the maximum amount which may bedeposited. For example, the account may have a limit of $100, permittinga player to only deposit $100. In one embodiment, the limit may be for apredetermined period of time, such as a maximum of $100 per month, withthe total amount which may be associated with the account increasingover time. An account with a deposit limit may have a deposit limit onlyfor the player. If a player wins a large jackpot, for example, thecasino may credit the jackpot to the account even though the jackpotexceeds the deposit limit.

In one embodiment, the account may be provided with special featureswhich are associated with linked accounts. For example, a player may bepermitted to designate a particular portion of their winnings to acharity account, account for treatment of gambling addiction or thelike. The account may have criteria for transferring 1% of all winningsdeposited into the account to such other accounts. Other amounts may betransferred, and the time of the transfer may vary, such as at periodictimes or at the time the winning is credited.

In one or more embodiments, a player's financial account may alsocomprise a player tracking account. In this arrangement, the account maybe associated with one or more files both delineating the financialaspects of the account, but also information typically contained in aplayer's player tracking file. The player tracking information mayinclude player identification information, generally common to thefinancial data. The player tracking information may also includeinformation such as the length of time a player has played a game, theamounts won and/or lost, information regarding past game play,calculated theoretical win and loss information, and other informationas is known in the art. Alternatively, a player's tracking and financialaccounts may be linked.

As noted above, in a preferred arrangement, a player is issued a singleaccess media which is associated with both the financial account andplayer account (whether such accounts are separate or merged). In thisarrangement, activities associated with player tracking and financialaccounting may occur simultaneously from the player's perspective.Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a player may travel to a gaming machine 102and insert their player card into the card reader 116. In response tothe card insertion, the player tracking device at the gaming machine 102may be caused to request input of a player's identification or PINnumber. This requested may be displayed on a video display at the gamingmachine.

The player may input their PIN via the keypad 118 at the gaming machine102. The player's account identifier (such as account number) readerfrom the card and the player's inputted PIN are then transmitted fromthe gaming machine 102 to the financial transaction host 120 and/orplayer tracking host 136. The financial transaction host 120 and/orplayer tracking host 136 may then verify the identity of the player andentitlement to use the card (such as by verifying the inputted PINagainst the player PIN stored in a file associated with their account).

A player may then engage in the play of a game. In a game requiring abet or wager, the player may first attempt to place a bet, such as bypressing a “bet” button at the gaming machine 102. In response to arequest to place a bet, the gaming machine 102 may send a signal to thefinancial transaction host 102 for verification that the player hassufficient funds (i.e. credits or monies) associated with their accountto place the bet. If so, then the bet amount may be credited to thegaming machine, and the bet amount may be debited from the player'sfinancial account.

If the accounts does not include sufficient funds, the player may benotified, such as by a visibly displayed or audio notification. Theplayer may then provide an alternate method of payment, such asinsertion of coins or bills. The player may also travel to a cashiercage and deposit finds into their account.

In one embodiment, a player may be permitted to deposit funds into theirfinancial account at the gaming machine 102. A player may insert coinsor bills, and have the deposited amounts credited directly to theiraccount.

In one embodiment, the financial transaction host 120 may transmitcredit information to a gaming machine 102 regarding the total creditsin the account belonging to or useable by the player. The number ofcredits may be adjusted based upon the denomination of bets which thegaming machine accepts. For example, if a player has $100 in theiraccount and begins playing a 25 cent minimum bet slot machine, then themachine may indicate that the player has 400 credits.

Advantageously, while the player plays the game, the player trackinghost 136 may track the player's play. For example, the gaming machine102 may transmit game play information such as length of play time tothe player tracking host 136.

In the event the player is awarded winnings while playing a game, thenthose winnings may be paid directly to the player in a manner commonlyknown, or may be credited to the player's account. For example, if aplayer wins 400 credits while playing a 25 cent machine, the player'saccount may be credited $100. As noted, the manner by which winnings arecredited may depend upon criteria associated with the account. If theplayer has a charity function, 1% or $1 of this winning may be creditedto the appropriate charity account and the remainder to the player'sfinancial account. If the player wishes, the winnings may be depositedin a separate winnings account belonging to the player. Such an accountmaybe arranged to prevent withdraws at a gaming machine. In this manner,a player may play until the funds in their main account are exhausted,and then the player may obtain their winnings from play of the mainaccount moneys.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a player may access theiraccount and engage in a wide variety of activities in similar manner tothat illustrated in FIG. 1( d). For example, a player may be permittedto access their account from a remote location. Referring to FIG. 2, aplayer may be permitted to access their account via the Internet. Thefinancial transaction host 120 may be configured to generate a graphicaluser interface which is displayed to the player and via which the playermay provide input.

The player may be provided with a variety of options. In one or moreembodiments, a player may be entitled to make changes to their account,such as change their PIN, address or the like. A player may also be ableto deposit finds. In one embodiment, a player may provide bank accountor credit card account information which is then used by the financialtransaction host 120 to effect an electronic funds transfer to theiraccount via a separate financial communications link.

A player may be able to change characteristics of their account, such aslimits on withdrawals. In some instances, changes may only be made by orwith the permission of the account provider.

A player may be permitted to move funds between accounts. For example, aplayer may be permitted to withdraw funds from one of their accounts andmove the funds to another of their accounts or to the account of anotherparty.

In a preferred embodiment, a player is permitted to view informationregarding their player tracking account in a similar manner or at thesame time as they obtain their financial account information. As isknown, it is common to award points to game players based upon theirgame play. These points may be redeemed for prizes, such as free gameplay, food, tickets to shows and other goods and services.

In one embodiment, a player may be provided with both their monetaryaccount balance and their point total. In some instances, a player maybe permitted to “buy” player reward points, or cash in player points. Inthe first arrangement, a player may desire to obtain a player reward butmay be a few points short of the level of points necessary. The playermay be permitted to transfer money from their financial account to thecasino to buy the additional points necessary. In the secondarrangement, the casino may offer a “cash-back” on points. A player mayturn in their points at a predetermined rate for money which isdeposited in their financial account.

In one or more embodiments, a player may be permitted to use depositedfunds at the casino, and may not be permitted to withdraw funds. Thisaccount arrangement is particular suited to that where a casino offerscash-back on play or points, as the casino is then assured that theplayer will bet those monies again at a later date. This accountconfiguration also is particularly suited to the casino offering abonus. For example, a casino may deposit an amount equal to apredetermined amount of a player's deposit in addition to the player'sdeposit. For example, a casino may indicate that the size of a player'sdeposit is 105% of the player's actual deposit.

One or more embodiments of the invention maybe used to facilitate remoteplay of a game or games by a player. In one embodiment, game informationmay be transmitted to a player at a remote location, thus enabling aplayer to play the game at the remote location. For example, referringto FIG. 5, the system 100 may include a game server 138 which generatesgame play information and receives or accepts game play input from aremote player. The game server is preferably in communication with thegateway 122 or other communication interface so that game playinformation may be transmitted to a player over a dedicated line or theInternet. A player's input may be transmitted from the player's locationto the game server 138. The player's location may comprise a remotededicated station, a desktop or laptop computer or the like.

Advantageously, a player's remote play in this fashion may be tracked bythe player tracking network, with game play information transmitted fromthe game server 138 to the player tracking server 136. In addition, aplayer may use their financial account to both fund their bettingactivities and receive winnings.

In like manner to the play of a gaming machine 102, a remote player mayinput their account information, such as by swiping their card through acard reader associated with the remote station, such as the player'scomputer. The player may also manually input the account information.Also in like manner to play of a gaming machine 102, the identificationinformation may be used to validate the player's right to play a game,to place bets, to track game play and the like. For example, the playeridentification information may be used by the financial transactionserver 120 to verify that the player has funds for placing a wager orbet. Such verification may be received from the game server 138 inresponse to input of bet or wager information from a player.

In general, the various methods of the invention described may beapplied to this remote gaming environment, with the player havingwinnings credited to their account and the other activities describedherein.

A particular advantage of this arrangement as applied to remote gamingis security. When a player uses their player account to fund theirwagering activity, the casino can be sure that the player is entitled toplace bets, since the casino has direct access to and control over theplayer's account. In addition, the player is protected, since the playeris using an account associated with the gaming entity. The player is notrequired to enter credit card or bank information which may beintercepted by others and then used for a variety of purposes.

Of course, the game server 138 or other apparatus maybe configured togenerate graphical user interface information which is transmitted to aremote player. The player may utilize this interface to interact withthe system 100, such as be inputting identification information whenrequired and engaging in other account and game play transactions.

In one embodiment of the invention, the various servers, such as thegame server 138, financial sever 120 and player tracking server 136 areall part of the same network, such as a LAN of a casino. In anotherembodiment, it will be appreciated that the various servers or otherapparatus may be associated with different networks. For example,several casinos may utilize a system such as described, but where only asingle financial server and/or player tracking server are provided atone location. Gaming machines may be associated with a number ofdifferent networks at different properties, but communication with thesingle financial and/or player tracking server.

In one embodiment, a casino may offer cards which are associated with“pre-paid” accounts in similar fashion to that described above for usegenerally in purchasing goods and services. For example, a casino maysell cards at grocery stores and other locations. The price of the cardmay be discounted in relation to the actual value of the account. Forexample, a player may pay $20 for a card which is associated with anaccount having $25 worth of credits therein. These cards may be used byany party, and may be transferable, making them useful as gifts.

A number of other configurations of methods and apparatus arecontemplated. One or more additional aspects of player tracking andfinancial accounting may be implemented using the apparatus and systemsdescribed herein.

In accordance with the invention, a player has control over theirfinancial account. In one embodiment, so does the casino. The casino mayaccess the player's account for a variety of purposes, such as limitingthe total amount a player may withdraw from their account. For example,a casino may monitor player accounts and apply criteria to determine ifa player is losing large sums or is engaging in uncommon accountactivity. If the player is suffering large losses, a casino may freezethe player's account or limit the total amount the player may withdraw.This aspect of the invention may be used to protect the player. Thecasino may also become aware of unusual account activity and freeze theaccount or conduct and investigation. Such an investigation may resultin a finding that the player's card has been stolen and is being used byanother party.

In one embodiment, a casino may deduct taxes due from a winning directlyfrom the player's account. Upon a win, the casino may determine the taxliability and transfer the withholding to a withholding account ordirectly transfer it to an IRS deposit account.

A casino may offer accounts with a variety of casino determinedcriteria. For example, a casino may offer accounts which have anexpiration date. In the case of prepaid cards, the accounts associatedwith the cards may become unusable after a predetermine date or apredetermined time after purchase. In this manner, the length of timethat the casino is exposed to play of the moneys is not unlimited.Amounts which are deposited into a player's account may also expire. Forexample, if a player redeems points for financial awards, the financialawards may have an associated expiration date by which the funds must bebet or bet lost.

A casino may enable usage of a financial account via on-line game playand table or other games besides electronic and electromechanical gamingmachines. For example, a blackjack table may be fitted with card readersand keypads, and all chips bet and won may be accounted for via thesystem 100, such as by reading a bar code provided on the chips. Aplayer may use their card to obtain $100 in chips at a table, andwinnings may be credited by the dealer to the player's account.

Access media may be provided other than magnetic stripe cards. Inaddition, a casino may not require that a PIN or other identifier beinputted in order to access the account.

A casino may permit a player to access their account information in awide variety of manners. As illustrated in FIG. 2, a casino may providekiosks 132 at which a player may access their account and obtain accountinformation or manage their account. A player may also obtain accountinformation and manage their account at a cashier station 126 or othercustomer service location.

In one embodiment, a player may utilized their casino card at anautomated teller machine (ATM) in similar manner to a bank card. Theplayer may withdraw funds from the account in the form of cash dispensedat the ATM.

A casino may enable a player to access their account from a room. Aninterface, such as integrated with a television, may be provided whichpermits a player to view account information and manage their account.

The present invention in more general application has numerous benefitsand advantages. In one embodiment, an account of the present inventionis configured to permit minors to make financial transactions. Inaccordance with the invention, a debit account is established by or forthe minor. Because of the existence of the funds in the account, a minormay complete a transaction without concern to the accountprovider/financial institution that the minor will pay for goods.

In one or more embodiments, this arrangement permits a customer to “buy”an account for use by another person in a fixed amount. In this manner,the account may be used as a gift. This arrangement has the advantagethat the recipient of the account can utilize the funds associated withthe account to make a purchase or pay for goods/services fromessentially any location. The recipient may purchase goods on-line or ata store. The recipient is not limited to a particular store or mall.

The customer may also utilize one or more of the accounts in similarfashion to travelers checks. Because the funds associated with theaccounts are different, a loss such as by theft of a single access mediadoes not affect the remaining finds. For added security, each accessmedia may have a different access code.

Parents and others may arrange an account for their children. Thechildren are not permitted to spend more money than their parentsprovide, because of the arrangement of the account. On the other hand,the parents can provide their children with a convenient means forpaying for items even though they may be located a great distance apart.The parents may also access the account to track purchases and othertransactions by their children. The parents may also arrange the accountas an “allowance” account, where funds are placed into their children'saccount at predetermined intervals without specific action by theparents or children at the time of each deposit.

The methods and accounts of the present invention has several safetyfeatures. In one embodiment, an account expires after a predeterminedtime. In this arrangement, the risk that a thief may find and be able touse a lost access card is reduced. The account is associated with aunique account signature which is generated from data which is difficultto obtain.

The methods and accounts permit a wide range of transactions, includinga number of very specific transactions which are not presentlyfacilitated. For example, a vendor may establish promotional accountsfor current and potential customers. One advantage of a promotionalaccount is that a large company may establish accounts which customerscan use at one or more of their stores located in different areas. Forexample, a retailer having outlet in Los Angeles and New York may issuecards associated with accounts for use by customer at either location.This arrangement is also advantageous for franchisees: the franchisermay sponsor a promotion for their franchisees whereby the discount oramounts provided to the customers are paid for by the franchiser.

A promotional account may also be a prize or award. A vendor may awardan account to one or more customer who win a contest or drawing or thelike. A vendor may also arrange the promotional account with anexpiration date requiring the customer to utilize the account within apredetermined time.

A customer may establish a charity account for themselves, or a charitymay establish an account for a customer. For example, a charity may seekdonations from customers in the form of deposits into a charity accountestablished by the charity for the customer.

In one or more embodiments, a customer or other user of a promotionalaccount may be prevented from any account activities except use of theaccount to facilitate a purchase. The customer or user to whom theaccount is issued may be prevented from obtaining funds from the account(such as cash) or viewing data associated with the account such as theremaining balance or the like. A customer may also be prevented frommerging the account or adding funds to the account. On the other hand, avendor may be permitted to track all purchases and other uses ofpromotional accounts. In this manner, the vendor can obtain importantdata regarding the customer, including their spending habits, spendinglocations and similar information.

A business may use the account for business to business transactions.For example, a business may set up a master account and a number of subor allowance accounts. The business may use the accounts to paysuppliers of goods and services. The master account may comprise a mainaccount for the business and each allowance account an account relatingto a particular vendor or project. Commensurate with billing or anaccounting period, the business may have arranged an automatic transferof funds from the master account to one or more of the allowanceaccounts, and from one or more of the allowance accounts to eachparticular supplier for their bill.

It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatusand the method therefrom are merely illustrative of applications of theprinciples of this invention and many other embodiments andmodifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention as defined in the claims.

I claim:
 1. A system, comprising: a player identification input device;a plurality of gaming terminals, each gaming terminal comprising: one ormore input mechanisms for receiving cash or an indicia of credit for awager to play a wager based game; one or more output mechanisms foroutputting cash or an indicia of credit; a financial server configuredfor communication with the plurality of gaming terminals via acommunication network, the financial server having associated memory forstoring data files corresponding to players' personal accounts andidentifiable with player identification data from said playeridentification input device, the data files including informationregarding finances available for use by players for wagering games, thefinancial server further configured for communication with a bank orother financial institution; and a player tracking server configured forcommunication with the gaming terminals and the financial server, theplayer tracking server including a memory for storing data filescorresponding to players and identifiable with the player identificationdata from said player identification input device, the data filesincluding player reward information, the player tracking serverconfigured for associating points with a player's data file based uponthe player's play of wagering games at one or more of the gamingterminals; wherein: the system is configured to permit a player, via atleast one of the gaming terminals, to access at least one data fileassociated with the player and stored on at least one of the financialserver and the player tracking server using the player's identificationdata to combine accounts, open a new account, or close-out an existingaccount.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is furtherconfigured to open a new player personal account or close out anexisting player personal account via one of the gaming terminals.
 3. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising at least one device configured forproviding access media having player identification information storedthereon.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the access media comprisecards having a magnetic stripe.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein thefinancial server is further configured for crediting finances to aplayer's data file in response to an indication that funds have beenprovided by the player.
 6. The system of claim 1, including means forpermitting a player to associate criteria regarding use of the financesindicated available in the player's file at the financial server.
 7. Afinancial transaction system, comprising: one or more servers configuredto do the following: generate a financial account corresponding to aplayer, the financial account represented by at least one data filecontaining information regarding available finances for playing one ormore gaming devices, the at least one data file containing game playinformation regarding one or more gaming devices played by the player,the financial account accessible by the player via at least one of thegaming devices to combine accounts, open a new account, or close-out anexisting account; authorize the issuance of an account access medium tothe player, the account access medium having identification informationthereon; receive the identification information from playeridentification input device of a gaming terminal currently used by theplayer, the gaming terminal comprising: a player identification inputdevice, one or more input mechanisms for receiving cash or an indicia ofcredit for a wager to play a wager based game and one or more outputmechanisms for outputting cash or an indicia of credit; provide accessto the player, via the gaming terminal currently used by the player, toat least one data file containing information regarding availablefinances and the at last one data file containing game play informationcorresponding to the identification information; modify the availablefinance data at the at least one data file based upon amounts bet andamounts won by the player while playing the gaming device; and storegame play information at the at least one data file containing game playinformation.
 8. The financial transaction system of claim 7, wherein theat least one data file includes personal identification codeinformation, wherein at least one server is configured to verify apersonal identification code received from the gaming terminal currentlyused by the player with the personal identification code informationstored in the at least one data file.
 9. The financial transactionsystem of claim 7, wherein the available finance information comprises acredit amount.
 10. The financial transaction system of claim 9, whereinthe modifying process comprises increasing the credit amount if theplayer is a winner of a game played at the gaming device currently usedby the player.
 11. The financial transaction system of claim 7, whereinone or more servers are configured to assign criteria regarding the useof finances represented by the financial information.
 12. The financialtransaction system of claim 7, wherein the game play informationincludes a number of points rewarded to the player and wherein one ormore servers are configured to convert one or more of the points to acredit amount and to modify the financial information to reflect thecredit amount.
 13. The financial transaction system of claim 7, whereinone or more servers are configured to receive player input and to allowaccess to at least one data file according to the player input.
 14. Thefinancial transaction system of claim 7, wherein one or more servers areconfigured to associate credits represented by the financial informationwith a second financial account of input from the player.
 15. Thefinancial transaction system of claim 7, wherein one or more servers areconfigured to generate financial information regarding a credit paid bythe player and to store the financial information.
 16. The financialtransaction system of claim 15, wherein one or more servers areconfigured to receive financial data from a bank and wherein the creditcorresponds to at least some of the financial data received from thebank.